🚀 go-pugleaf

>Dierick Dominique writes:

>Me too ...
>I am looking to buy a 7 inch ED, but I'd really like first to see some
>results with it ( photographs of deep-sky and planets ) to compare the
>refractor with the higher priced EDT from AstroPhysics. 
>Any comments and experiences welcome. I know the 3 lens design probably
>is better, but is it worth the nearly double price you have to pay for it ?

I haven't looked through the new Meade Refractors so I can't address that
specifically. However, I would caution anybody about using photographs as
a way of judging between telescopes for the following reasons:

1) Photographic use of the telescope is somewhat less demanding (unless we
are talking eyepiece projection as in planets) than high power visual use of
the optics. You did mention Planetary photography so you may be aware of this.

2) The way the photographs are processed to bring out detail, etc. is likely
to have a big effect. (Did they sandwich negatives, etc.)

3) Conditions under which the photographs were taken are likely to be different.
Also includes variables like the format of the film used.

I for one would love it if the Meade Refractors are great and the mounts
are equally good but I for one remain very sceptical. I want to eventually get
a 7" Apo Refractor and the thought of paying less has its appeal.